Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today inaugurated the week-long International Kullu Dussehra celebrations at Rath Maidan, Kullu and also participated in the traditional Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath Ji. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.
While interaction with the media, the Governor said that while people across the world celebrate Dussehra in different ways, in Himachal Pradesh devotees pull the chariot of Lord Raghunath Ji, thereby preserving traditions and strengthening cultural values. “This festival is not only a celebration but also a symbol of faith, unity and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage,” he added.
"The difference between the Gen-z of Himachal and those abroad is that in Himachal, the Gen-z pull the chariot of Lord Raghunath Ji, thereby carrying forward our culture. They remain connected to traditions and serve as preservers of heritage", said Shukla.
Shri Shukla prayed to all deities for blessings to make Himachal a drug-free state and urged society to come forward collectively to eliminate this menace. “There is no place for drugs in Dev-Bhoomi Himachal. Together we must build a healthy and safe environment for future generations,” he stressed.
Referring to the recent natural disasters, the Governor said that the state had suffered significant losses this year as well, but the courage and determination of the people had helped restore normal life. He appealed to citizens not to carry out construction activities close to rivers and streams and to contribute actively to environmental conservation.
Later, the Governor inaugurated exhibitions put up by government departments, boards, corporations and non-governmental organizations. He visited the stalls and appreciated the exhibits, while highlighting that Himachal is renowned for its pristine beauty and collective responsibility is required to keep the surroundings clean and natural resources protected.
“Let this festival strengthen our bonds of unity, bring prosperity to our state and inspire us to work towards a brighter and more peaceful future,” the Governor said. More than 300 deities from different parts of Kullu district are participating in this year’s festival. Earlier, the Governor was accorded a grand welcome on his arrival at Bhuntar Airport.
MLAs Sunder Singh Thakur, Surender Shourie, Bhuvaneshwar Gaur, Chairperson of Himachal Pradesh State Commission for Women Vidya Negi, Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma, Deputy Commissioner Torul S. Raveesh, Superintendent of Police Dr. Karthikeyan Gokulachandran and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.